The experience of travelling to the UK will soon change for many people, as the country is introducing its new ETA programme. Expected to come into effect by the year 2024, the ETA will not affect Namibian citizens visiting the UK. This is because Namibia was removed from the visa-waiver country list on July 19th 2023, mainly due to abuse of the asylum claim system as deemed by Home Office. Thus, as of late 2024, Namibians will not be eligible for an ETA when the system fully rolls out in 2025.
What is the UK ETA?
The ETA, or Electronic Travel Authorisation, has been developed by the British government as part of a new system designed to digitalise the country’s borders. The two main goals of the system are oversight and security. When the ETA is in place, the government will be able to more effectively monitor people entering the country and, in turn, identify potential threats to safety. The ETA is a new programme for the UK, but some travellers may already have experience with similar systems. Programmes like the Canadian ETA or United States ESTA, which have now been in place for a few years, are very similar to the UK ETA.
The ETA is replacing the UK’s visa waiver system. It is not a visa, and the application process is much faster and simpler. Unlike a visa, an ETA can be acquired through a totally online process. A traveller with an ETA can spend up to six months in the UK.
Does the ETA affect Namibian Travellers?
No, as a member of the Commonwealth, Namibia was on the list of countries whose citizens can enter the United Kingdom without a visa. However, this changed in July 2023. Now, Namibian citizens will need to apply for a Standard Visitor Visa UK for a variety of different reasons. These include the following:
• Tourism
• Business trips
• Short-term courses or study programmes
• Visits to friends and family
• Medical treatment
Namibians who want to spend more than six months in the UK, are hoping to live there permanently or would like to work there (whether temporarily or long-term) will also still need to apply for a visa, just as they do under the current system.
Namibia may be added back to the list of visa-waiver programme countries, however as of late 2024, no updates to the rules have been announced.
Applying for a UK Standard Visitor Visa
Step 1: Confirm the Need for a Visa
As a Namibian citizen, you are required to obtain a visa prior to traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism.
Step 2: Gather Essential Documents
To ensure a smooth application process, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for the entire duration of your stay in the UK.
- Completed Visa Application Form: Fill out the online application form with precise and accurate information.
- Financial Documentation: Provide evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses while in the UK, such as recent bank statements, pay slips, or a letter from a financial sponsor.
- Travel and Accommodation Details: Include proof of your travel plans, such as flight bookings and hotel reservations, as well as a detailed itinerary if available.
- Proof of Ties to Namibia: Submit documents that demonstrate your strong ties to Namibia, such as employment verification, property ownership, or family responsibilities.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photograph: Ensure the photograph meets the specific requirements outlined by the UK visa authorities.
Step 3: Complete the Online Visa Application
- Visit the official UK government visa application portal.
- Accurately fill in all required fields in the online application form.
- Pay the visa application fee online using a valid credit or debit card.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment for Biometric Data Collection
- After submitting your online application, book an appointment at the nearest visa application centre.
- Choose a date and time that best suits your schedule.
- At your appointment, you will need to provide your passport and supporting documents. Additionally, you will be required to have your biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) taken.
Step 5: Wait for Visa Processing and Decision
- The time it takes to process a visa can vary, so it’s recommended to apply well ahead of your planned travel dates. You can check the estimated processing times on the UK government website.
- Once a decision has been made, you will be notified, and your passport will be returned to you with the visa included, if your application is successful.
Additional Recommendations
- Apply Early: To avoid any potential delays, submit your application several weeks before your intended departure.
- Accuracy is Key: Double-check all the information you provide in your application to ensure there are no mistakes that could lead to complications or delays.
- Local Guidelines: Review any specific instructions or requirements for Namibian citizens on the UK government website to make sure your application is fully compliant.